3 Things You May Not Know About Ellen DeGeneres

If you live in America, you know who Ellen DeGeneres is. She has been the host of her self-named talk show for 15 years. And she’s showcased every big star you can think of, from Justin Timberlake, Justin Bieber to Michelle Obama. She is pretty universally loved and is known for two things, being a pioneer in the LGBTQ community and being the hilarious host of her TV show. Here are some amazing qualities you may not know about her:

1. The FIRST Openly Gay Lead Character On TV

Ellen Made History As The First Openly Gay Lead In Television

In her sitcom, Ellen, she decided to come out publicly after three seasons. Ellen came out in the most groundbreaking way possible, on her scripted TV show. With one line, she came out to the world and make her mark in LGBTQ history in 1997. Unfortunately, the show was canceled, but that didn’t stop her successful career to come.

2. Received Medal Of Freedom From President Obama

Ellen Receives Prestigious Medal From Former President Obama

In 2016, Ellen received the Medal of Freedom from former President Obama. Even with twenty other pop culture candidates, she was still chosen for the medal. Her tireless efforts have made the world a better place, and her emotional response proves it. Ellen’s reaction when being awarded the medal went viral since it was so raw and beautiful to watch.

3. Has Gorilla Sanctuary In Rwanda In Her Name

Ellen And Wife Portia At The Gorilla Sanctuary

In January 2018, Ellen’s wife Portia gifted her The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. This camp helps scientists prevent gorilla extinction. Ellen has always had a passion for helping Gorillas and has continually donated to the Fossey Fund. How could you not love her after that?

Ellen’s Bravery

For 20 years, young people who thought they might be gay, or knew they were gay and were too afraid to say anything, were fully embraced by Ellen on her show.If you watch Ellen’s first interview after coming out with Oprah, you would be shocked by the response. Today, there is only a small group of people who can’t wrap their heads around homosexuality. The majority of society not only understands but voted in favor of gay marriage rights.

There are many factors and many influencers, but, the world would not be as accepting without Ellen. Celebrities tend to be characterized by one or two qualities and are put in a box. In today’s culture, there are too many “famous” people to keep track of. And many have fake personas that you wouldn’t know unless you did a background check. However, there still are good people being their genuine selves, and Ellen is one of those people.